Creamed Sesame Dandelion

Available commercially and in the wild, dandelion greens have a bitter flavor that needs equally assertive flavors to stand up to it. In this recipe, garlic, lemon juice, and a creamy sauce made with tahini handle the job well. You'll find that this side dish makes a perfect accompaniment to a piece of broiled fresh fish.

Directions

1.
In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, soy sauce, lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons water until thoroughly blended and creamy; set aside.

2.
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook dandelion greens until wilted, 2 to 4 minutes. Drain, spreading greens out in the colander to prevent further cooking.

3.
Dry empty pot and return to stove. Add oil and garlic and cook over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until garlic is golden, about 2 minutes. Stir in the dandelion greens; season with salt. Pour the tahini mixture over the greens and mix thoroughly until the sauce thickens and the flavors have mingled, about 2 minutes. Serve immediately.

Cook's Notes

Look for tahini (sesame paste) in natural-foods stores or in the international foods aisle of your local supermarket.